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Gun rights and wrongs

This latest massacre in America has some politicians vowing to tighten rules on access to assault rifles, automatic weapons and clips with multiple rounds. The horror of Friday morning in Newtown, Conn., has awakened those who feel the country is too soaked in blood, with far too many guns available to flawed, dangerous people.

Look at last week — two victims killed, followed by the suicide of the shooter, at the Clackamas Town Center in the suddenly ironically named Happy Valley, Ore. That dominated headlines for a few days, before 28 died in Newtown. Add in the 50 rounds fired in a Newport Beach, Calif., mall parking lot, the two Topeka, Kan., police officers shot and killed Monday … the deadly count keeps adding up.

But while those who are concerned about guns promise action, and President Obama said he will do all he can to change things during his emotional speech in Newtown Sunday night, there is sure to be considerable opposition.

The people who oppose restrictions claim the Second Amendment prohibits government restrictions on their firepower. And they also feel safer with guns in their homes, vehicles, and increasingly, strapped to their sides in public.

About Tom Lawrence

I'm a South Dakota native who has covered the state since 1978. The events, officials, celebrities and news have provided a remarkable pageant to watch pass. Spending time with and learning about the people of South Dakota, almost always strong, modest, wry, smart, decent and friendly, has been the best part of the work.
I live in Mitchell.